California and Pittsburgh at Ohio State

Recap

The Big Storyline: Using a second-straight 197, the Buckeyes were able to pull the home upset win over visiting top 10 foe California and earn a win against Pittsburgh as well. Maya Bordas won the all-around to lead the Golden Bears, but it was double-winner Stephanie Berger who propelled Ohio State to victory. Ciara Ward earned Pittsburgh’s lone event title of the day tying for the top score on vault.

Implications: Ohio State picked up good momentum ahead of its Big Ten evening session appearance next week and put up a total that will keep it in contention for a seed at regionals. California and Pittsburgh’s NQSes will not be changed drastically by their scores from this meet.

Records: Grace Quinn tied her career best on floor in winning the title.

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 10 California and No. 37 Pittsburgh at No. 16 Ohio State

Why You Should Make Time to Tune in: Ohio State has a real chance at an upset here. The Buckeyes hit 197 twice at home, including a huge 197.525 last week. California’s season high is only half a tenth better than that, and that was at home. Pittsburgh also has a chance here to take advantage of the big environment and continue its record-setting season. Keep in mind, too, that Ohio State hosts Big Tens next week; this is a great dry run in Covelli.

Need More Proof? These are all exciting bars teams. Colby Miller, Elexis Edwards and Nicole Riccardi headline the Buckeye lineup while reigning national champion Maya Bordas, as well as Andi Li and Madelyn Williams, shine for the Bears. Pittsburgh’s Katie Chamberlain, Hallie Copperwheat and Jordyn Ewing are all strong. Those gymnasts have all hit 9.950 or 9.925 this year. If you just watch one apparatus, let it be bars.